In a significant development for Kenya’s tourism industry, Africa Travels Investment, a firm backed by Aliko Dangote, Africa’s richest man, has acquired Pollman’s Tours and Safaris, the country’s oldest and most iconic tour operator.
The acquisition was approved by Kenya’s Competition Authority, which confirmed that the deal does not raise any competition concerns or risk of job losses. The regulator emphasized that the tourism industry remains tightly regulated and that the transaction complies with market fairness guidelines.
Pollman’s, founded over six decades ago, is a household name in East African tourism, offering safari packages and transport services to both domestic and international travelers. Its acquisition signals a renewed confidence in Kenya’s travel sector, which is steadily recovering from past disruptions and eyeing growth in eco-tourism and luxury experiences.
The purchase was led by Alterra Capital Partners, a private equity fund co-owned by Dangote and American billionaire David Rubenstein. The firm has also shown interest in other Kenyan assets, including Java House, one of the country’s leading coffee and casual dining chains.
Industry analysts view the acquisition as a strategic move to capitalize on Kenya’s strong economic fundamentals and growing consumer market. The African Development Bank forecasts continued expansion of Kenya’s economy in 2025, driven by digital innovation, declining inflation, and favorable monetary policies.
The entry of high-profile investors into the tourism and hospitality space reflects broader foreign interest in Kenya’s service sector. Stakeholders believe the acquisition could spur investment in infrastructure, service quality, and regional tourism competitiveness.
As Africa’s tourism industry regains momentum post-COVID-19, Kenya’s positioning as a gateway for wildlife, culture, and business travel is expected to strengthen—particularly with renewed backing from continental powerhouses like Dangote.